The National Environment Management Authority (Nema) in Kwale county has raised concerns over growing interference by local politicians, which is hampering efforts to enforce environmental laws.

Speaking during a press interview in Matuga, Nema County Director Edith Kalo (inset) said the authority is struggling to fully execute its mandate due to persistent political meddling, particularly in the regulation of illegal stone and sand mining activities in Waa, Tiwi, and Ukunda.

“Some leaders are quick to defend individuals who are clearly violating environmental regulations. They interfere with our enforcement processes, making it hard for us to take legal action,” said Kalo.

She noted that in several instances, politicians have stormed enforcement operations or called for release of arrested culprits, frustrating Nema officers on the ground.

Kalo warned that the situation has emboldened illegal miners who continue to exploit natural resources without regard for environmental impact.

According to her, the unchecked mining activities have led to land degradation, destruction of water sources, and heightened risks of landslides and floods in the affected areas.

The county director noted that the vice is jeopardising the lives of the residents, especially those living near mining sites, who are exposed to health and safety hazards.

“The environment doesn’t belong to individuals. It is our collective responsibility to safeguard it for current and future generations,” she said.

She stressed that anyone intending to operate a mining site must follow the due legal process and fulfil all necessary requirements, including conducting Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA).

“These procedures exist to protect our environment and communities. If they are ignored, we all suffer the consequences,” she said.

The director called on miners to seek guidance from Nema offices before starting extraction activities to avoid penalties or closure of their operations. She warned individuals operating illegal mining sites that have already been shut down will soon face the full force of the law.

Kalo revealed that the illegal mining sites had previously been shut down following tragic incidents that resulted in the loss of lives back in 2020.